Winter Coat Drive Being Held in Niagara Falls This Week

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It's always a blessing to help the less fortunate during the holidays, especially in the midst of a pandemic. While many people are out of work, have lost loved ones who may have been their support system, or just having a hard time in general, small gestures of kindness can go a long way. It's no secret that Western New York winters are among the harshest in the country with bitter cold temperatures and the constant threat of heavy lake effect snow storms so it's essential to have a coat to protect oneself against the region's unforgiving winter weather conditions. A local native and business man plans to give back to his community by helping to make sure those without a coat or a decent one at the very least will be warm this winter. I caught up with the C.O.O. of Hip hop Weekly Magazine to talk about their upcoming coat drive this Thursday, December 23rd, which is also hosted by myself;

ReddRoxx: Thank you for taking the time out to talk to me about your latest community initiative. Please take a moment to Introduce yourself

Stretch: My name is Theodore "Stretch" Travis I was born and raised in Niagara Falls NY.

RR: Dope! I grew up in Buffalo, not too far from the Falls. Even though they're not that far apart, there are some differences. What was it like growing up in the Niagara Falls/Buffalo area for you?

S: Growing up in the Niagara Falls/Buffalo area was cool. Being from this area molds you to be a hustler due to the lack of opportunity especially in the music and entertainment fields.. You have to work twice as hard coming from this area.

RR: That's a fact, I definitely agree. There are a lot of different holiday initiatives, what made you choose a coat drive?

S: True there are a lot of different holiday initiatives. I seen a bunch of toy drives so I wanted to do something different. Being from this area, the winters can be brutal and with people still trying to recover from the pandemic a lot of people can't afford necessities like a coat. Look at the current gas prices, look at the cost of food it's hard out here.

RR: You ain't never lied. The prices of everything is out of control. This is definitely needed, especially in this area. Will this be an annual event?

S: Yes I plan on this being an annual event, and having it in different locations throughout Upstate NY.

RR: Amazing! Is the magazine working on any other charitable events?

S: Yes you will see Hip Hop Weekly become very active in the community and do more charity work. Now that we're in position I think it's imperative we help those and educate those who are in need. Expect to see us on the frontlines.

RR: Love to see it! And definitely looking forward to helping in any way that I can as well. How can someone donate to the upcoming winter coat drive?

S: First I want to thank everyone who has already donated. I want to thank Shanna Smith owner Game On Ent for allowing us to use their space for the event.. For all donations big or small please contact me at stretch@hiphopweekly.com